The mountain pasture of Tracouet, above Nendaz in the southern Swiss Alps and 2,200m above sea level, sets a picturesque stage for 245 alphorn blowers who gathered to perform on the final day of the 14th International Alphorn contest yesterday.

The wind instrument, which is a part of Swiss folklore, is made of wood, has a cup-shaped mouthpiece and is used by mountain dwellers in Switzerland.

The performance is considered the highlight of the festival, which is held over three days each summer in the village high above the Rhone Valley.

Activities at the festival include a grand traditional procession, concerts, performances by folk groups and traditional dances.

Alphorn initiation courses and visits to alphorn-makers are organised regularly.